Gobi Gurvansaikhan National Park is a place where nature and culture intertwine in Asia’s largest desert. Located in Mongolia’s Gobi region, this park features landscapes filled with dunes, mountains, and canyons, along with a variety of wildlife adapted to extreme conditions. From the impressive Khongoryn Els dunes to the icy valleys of Yolyn Am, Gobi Gurvansaikhan’s protected area offers an unforgettable experience in one of the planet’s most fascinating ecosystems. Dive into this guide to plan your next adventure in one of Mongolia’s most enigmatic corners in Asia.
Content
- 1 About Gobi Gurvansaikhan National Park
- 2 How to Get to Gobi Gurvansaikhan National Park
- 3 Geography of Gobi Gurvansaikhan National Park
- 4 Flora of Gobi Gurvansaikhan
- 5 Fauna of Gobi Gurvansaikhan
- 6 Recommended Excursions and Activities
- 7 What to See and Do in Gobi Gurvansaikhan National Park
- 8 Local Culture in Gobi Gurvansaikhan and Its Desert
- 9 Gastronomy in Gobi Gurvansaikhan National Park
- 10 Accommodations in Gobi Gurvansaikhan National Park
About Gobi Gurvansaikhan National Park
History of the National Park
Gobi Gurvansaikhan National Park (in Mongolian: Говь Гурвансайхан байгалийн цогцолборт газар) was established in 1993 to protect the diverse ecosystems of the Gobi Desert. Its name means "Three Rich Mountains," in honor of the mountain range that runs through the park, and it has become a crucial conservation area for endangered species like the snow leopard and the argali. In addition to being a wildlife refuge, the park is famous for its paleontological discoveries, including significant dinosaur fossils.
Location and Access
The park is located in southern Mongolia, near the city of Dalanzadgad, in Ömnögovi province. It spans a vast area of over 27,000 square kilometers, encompassing mountains, dunes, and canyons. Gobi Gurvansaikhan is accessible from Ulaanbaatar via domestic flights and off-road vehicle tours, adding a unique experience to the journey.
Best Time to Visit Gobi Gurvansaikhan
The best time to visit the park is during spring and autumn when temperatures are milder. Summer can be extremely hot, while winters are very cold, with temperatures dropping below -20 °C. In spring, wildlife activity increases, and in autumn, the landscape is tinted with warm hues, creating an ideal setting for photography.
How to Get to Gobi Gurvansaikhan National Park
From Ulaanbaatar
Most travelers choose to fly from Ulaanbaatar to Dalanzadgad, which takes about an hour. From there, an off-road tour to the park can be arranged. Another option is the overland route, which takes approximately 8-10 hours, traveling across desert roads and tracks.
From Dalanzadgad
Dalanzadgad is the gateway to the park. From this city, visitors can book tours or rent vehicles to explore different areas of the park, such as the Khongoryn Els dunes and Yolyn Am valley. Roads within the park can be challenging without an experienced guide or driver.
From Other Nearby Cities
If you are in nearby towns like Mandalgobi or Bayankhongor, you can reach the park by road. These towns are further away than Dalanzadgad, so the journey may take several additional hours.
Geography of Gobi Gurvansaikhan National Park
The park’s landscape is dominated by a mix of mountains, sand dunes, and deep canyons. The Gurvansaikhan mountain range divides the park, creating a unique visual contrast with the surrounding arid terrain. Despite its inhospitable appearance, this landscape hosts surprising biodiversity and features various microclimates, from tundra zones on the mountain peaks to semi-desert areas on the low plains.
Flora of Gobi Gurvansaikhan
Despite harsh conditions, the park’s flora is rich in species adapted to the desert. Among them are hardy shrubs and herbaceous plants that make the most of the scarce water available. Saxauls, which are small, drought-resistant trees, cover large areas of the park, providing shelter for local fauna. In spring, some species bloom, bringing life to the desert.
Fauna of Gobi Gurvansaikhan
The park’s wildlife is diverse and unique, with species that have developed adaptations to survive in this extreme environment. The snow leopard, one of the most iconic and elusive species, inhabits the mountainous areas, while the argali, a type of wild sheep, roams the rocky hills. It is also home to birds of prey, such as the golden eagle, the bearded vulture, and the endangered saker falcon in the eastern range. This has led to the designation of the park as an Important Bird Area by BirdLife International. Additionally, it is home to other species like the corsac fox and Pallas’s cat.
Recommended Excursions and Activities
What to See and Do in Gobi Gurvansaikhan National Park
Hiking in the Khongoryn Els Dunes
The Khongoryn Els dunes, known as the "singing dunes," stretch for over 100 km and are one of Gobi’s major attractions and a popular destination within the park. Their mighty heights of up to 300 meters offer spectacular views and are perfect for hiking or exploring on camel excursions. The shifting shapes under the wind create an ever-changing landscape, ideal for adventurers seeking unique desert experiences.
Yolyn Am Valley
A trip through Yolyn Am Valley leads to a landscape of deep canyons and narrow passages, where ice persists for months. This spot is perfect for those who wish to explore the cooler areas of the park.
This valley is famous for retaining ice during much of the year, even in summer. Visitors can hike through the narrow canyon and admire the surrounding rock formations. It’s a perfect place to spot birds and other animals that seek refuge in the cooler areas of the park.
Dungene Canyon
The lesser-known yet equally impressive Dungene Canyon offers steep views and trails through rocky areas, ideal for hikes and for those seeking quieter places to explore.
Bayanzag (Flaming Cliffs)
The "Flaming Cliffs" of Bayanzag are famous for their intense reddish color at sunset. This place is known for dinosaur fossil discoveries, making it a point of interest for nature lovers and paleontology enthusiasts alike.
Trails in the Gurvansaikhan Mountains
The trails winding along the mountains offer spectacular panoramas. It’s an excellent spot for moderate hikes and to enjoy the scenery from above.
Archaeological and Fossil Sites
Gobi Gurvansaikhan has been the site of important archaeological discoveries. Exploring these areas provides a unique opportunity to learn about the region’s natural history and the ancient inhabitants who left their mark here.
Stargazing in the Desert
The Gobi Desert is one of the best places in the world for stargazing due to the lack of light pollution. Clear nights offer an unparalleled experience under the starry sky.
Landscape Photography Spots
With its mix of dunes, mountains, and valleys, the park is a paradise for photographers. The sunrises and sunsets in the Gobi provide unique colors that enhance the beauty of this wild landscape.
Wildlife Watching
The park’s rich wildlife diversity makes it an excellent destination for nature enthusiasts. From small desert rodents to large predators, there are tours focused on wildlife observation, with the chance to spot some of the rarest species on the planet.
Local Culture in Gobi Gurvansaikhan and Its Desert
Nomadic Communities in the Gobi
The nomadic communities of the Gobi, such as the Khalkha, Kazakhs, and Bayad, continue to live in harmony with the desert environment, following traditions passed down through generations. These communities rely on livestock such as camels, goats, and sheep, adapting to the harsh conditions of the Gobi. Visiting their camps is an enriching experience that allows visitors to learn about their unique lifestyle and enjoy their warm hospitality. Travelers can participate in traditional activities like food preparation and daily life in the ger (nomadic tents).
Handicrafts and Traditions
The Gobi nomads are known for their traditional crafts, which include wool textiles, handmade tapestries, and decorated leather items. These creations are not only functional products but also reflect their deep connection to the land and ancestral customs. Kazakh crafts, for example, are renowned for their elaborate embroidery, while the Khalkha are experts in producing everyday items, such as camel saddles. These traditions continue to be a fundamental part of their culture, preserving their identity in a changing environment.
Gastronomy in Gobi Gurvansaikhan National Park
Typical Regional Dishes
Local cuisine is based on products like lamb, yogurt, and dairy products. Dishes like "buuz" (steamed dumplings) and "khorkhog" (lamb cooked with hot stones) are some of the specialties to enjoy.
Nomadic Specialties
Dairy products, such as "airag" (fermented mare’s milk), are essential in the nomadic diet. Tasting these delicacies is part of the authentic Gobi experience.
Accommodations in Gobi Gurvansaikhan National Park
Ger Camps (Traditional Camps)
Ger camps (traditional nomadic tents) are one of the most popular options for visitors. These camps offer an immersive experience in Mongolian culture with basic yet authentic amenities.
Accommodations in Dalanzadgad
The city of Dalanzadgad offers more conventional accommodation options, with a selection of hotels and guesthouses for travelers who prefer more comfort before venturing into the park.
Camping Options within the Park
For those seeking a more adventurous experience, camping is a viable option in certain areas of the park. However, it is recommended to be accompanied by an experienced guide due to the desert’s extreme conditions.
Recommended parks: National Parks of Mongolia.
